Cristom

Cristom Vineyards, established in 1992 in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA, Oregon, is renowned for its exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines, crafted with a focus on terroir-driven expression and sustainable farming practices.

History of Cristom Vineyards

Founded by Paul Gerrie, Cristom Vineyards was born from a desire to craft wines that honor the land and reflect the unique terroir of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. The name Cristom combines the names of Gerrie’s children, Christine and Tom, signifying the family’s integral role in the estate.

Cristom’s winemaking philosophy is deeply rooted in tradition and innovation. Led by winemaker Steve Doerner, who joined the winery at its inception, Cristom has championed techniques such as whole-cluster fermentation and minimal intervention to craft wines of complexity and elegance. Over the decades, the estate has earned international acclaim for its focus on single-vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, reflecting the distinct characteristics of each site.

Region and Vineyards

Cristom Vineyards is located in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA, a sub-region of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. The estate spans 240 acres, with 90 acres planted to vines on the eastern-facing slopes. The vineyards benefit from the Van Duzer Corridor, which channels cool ocean breezes, moderating temperatures and preserving acidity in the grapes.

The estate features five single vineyards, each named after a family member:

• Eileen Vineyard: Situated at the highest elevation, offering bright and elegant wines.
• Jessie Vineyard: Known for its steep slopes and complex soils, producing structured and earthy wines.
• Louise Vineyard: The estate’s lowest vineyard, producing richly textured wines.
• Marjorie Vineyard: Home to some of the oldest vines, delivering wines of depth and finesse.
• Paul Gerrie Vineyard: The newest addition, showcasing the future potential of Cristom’s terroir.

Wine Range of Cristom Vineyards

Cristom produces a wide range of wines that emphasize the uniqueness of its vineyards:

• Single-Vineyard Pinot Noir: Each vineyard is vinified separately to capture its distinct character, including Eileen, Jessie, Louise, Marjorie, and Paul Gerrie.
• Mt. Jefferson Cuvée Pinot Noir: A flagship blend representing the broader Cristom estate.
• Chardonnay: Crafted with precision and showcasing the bright acidity and minerality of Oregon’s volcanic soils.
• Syrah: A limited production wine that highlights Cristom’s innovation beyond Pinot Noir.

Did you know?

Cristom integrates biodynamic and organic farming practices across its estate, focusing on sustainability and vineyard health. The vineyards are home to chickens and sheep, which naturally manage pests and fertilize the soil, creating a thriving ecosystem that enhances vine quality.